The 35-year-old 'Loca' singer - who welcomed her first child Milan Pique Mebarak into the world in Barcelona on Tuesday night - confirmed she and her FC Barcelona star boyfriend Gerard Pique, 25, are "happy" following their baby boy's arrival and also explained the meaning behind his name.

A message on her official website said: "We are happy to announce the birth of Milan Pique Mebarak, son of Shakira Mebarak and Gerard Pique, born January 22nd at 9:36pm, in Barcelona, Spain.

"The name Milan (pronounced MEE-lahn), means dear, loving and gracious in Slavic; in Ancient Roman, eager and laborious; and in Sanskrit, unification.

"Just like his father, baby Milan became a member of FC Barcelona at birth.

"The hospital confirmed that the couple's first child weighed approximately 6lbs. 6 ounces, and that both mother and child are in excellent health."

Shortly before giving birth Shakira asked her fans to pray for her after she was admitted into the Teknon clinic, where she was scheduled to be induced.

The 'She Wolf' singer appealed to her fans via Twitter, writing: "I'd like to ask you all to accompany me in your prayers on this very important day of my life. Shak"